Posted By: 16 February 2024

How to Prepare for CAS Interview

What is CAS Interview?

To allow students to study in the UK, Universities conduct a PRE CAS Interview after students have made an initial deposit and before issuing the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letters. PRE CAS Interview is like a credibility interview. Successful completion of the interview and submission of all the necessary documents lead to the issuance of the CAS letter. The PRE CAS Interview typically lasts around 30 minutes, also the feedback regarding the interview will be provided within 2 to 3 working days.

The purpose of the Pre-CAS interview is to confirm that a student's intention to study at a UK university is genuine. This interview allows universities to gauge a student's true intentions and assess if the information provided in their Statement of Purpose (SOP) and academic documents is justified. The interview is also an opportunity for the university to determine if the student is genuinely interested in studying at their institution and in the UK. While many UK universities conduct Pre-CAS interviews, some top-ranked institutions, such as those in the Russell Group, may not require them as they generally receive applications from highly qualified candidates.

Moreover, the Pre-CAS interview can help students prepare for their UK visa interviews and increase their chances of visa approval. Students should be aware that their Pre-CAS interview can make or break their chances of admission to their desired university. Therefore, it is essential for students to impress the interviewers and have a successful interview.

Read about on: Points to analyse while studying abroad

Probable questions for a Pre-CAS Interview

Why do you want to visit the UK?
Why did you choose the UK for higher studies?
Why did you choose this course?
Why did you choose this university?
Have you been to the UK before?
What are you doing currently?
Where will you stay in the UK?
What are your goals for the future?
Will you be travelling alone to the UK?
What do your parents do?
Do you intend to work in the UK?
Was your UK Student Visa application refused before?
Who is funding your study and living in the UK?
Why do you want to study in the UK and not your home country?
Why are you starting your studies again now after such a long break?

Tips on how to have a Successful Interview

Give precise and detailed answers to explain yourself accurately.
Demonstrate you have done sufficient research by avoiding using generic answers.
Pay special attention to key points highlighted in your essays (these key points represent your application and can serve as valuable talking points during the interview)
Demonstrate your involvement in extracurricular activities and notable achievements (discussing these aspects in detail demonstrates self-awareness and passion for your pursuits)
Your answers must be supported with facts and figures (discussing these aspects resonates with your awareness and clarity and provides a clear understanding of you)
Try to answer all questions honestly and clearly.
Technical issues are to be reported before leaving the interview.
Ensure all answers are in English.
Ask the interviewer to repeat the question if you do not understand the question.

Importance of a Good Interview

A successful Pre-CAS Interview can either make or break their chances of getting admission to a university in the UK. In other words, a successful Pre-CAS Interview means a successful admission. If a Pre-CAS Interview is unsuccessful, a student can be denied CAS regardless of the stipulated deposit. Thus, the student could not proceed with their UK Student Visa. Fortunately, if the stipulated deposit has been paid and the student’s interview is unsuccessful, the university will refund the deposit and withdraw the offer.

Reach out to SIEC for application enquiries and assistances.

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